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Michigan Oktoberfest Train Rides

Published: September 21, 2025

By: Adam Burns

Crisp air, flame-colored maples, a brass oompah beat, and a clink of steins as wheels sing on rail—there’s something irresistibly nostalgic about celebrating Oktoberfest on a train. Michigan, with its deep railroad heritage and thriving beer scene, is a natural fit for this kind of fall fun.

While “Oktoberfest trains” aren’t guaranteed on the calendar every year, several Michigan railroads do run fall color, dinner, and special-event trains that sometimes take on a German or beer-tasting twist. Here’s a detailed guide to help you track them down, plan a weekend, and make the most of autumn on the rails.

What is an Oktoberfest train?

An Oktoberfest-themed train blends a scenic excursion with seasonal touches: festbier or local craft pours (when permitted), bratwurst or German-inspired plates, polka or live music, and fall color vistas outside your window.

Some are adults-only evening events with tastings; others are family-friendly with root beer, pretzels, and harvest activities. Because operators tailor themes year by year, the key is knowing who to watch and how to book early.

Michigan railroads to watch

Note: Schedules and themes change annually. Confirm details, alcohol policies, and age restrictions directly with each operator.

Coopersville & Marne Railway

Known for family-friendly themed trains (Pumpkin, Bunny, Santa), this short line celebrates fall in a charming, low-key way. Alcohol isn’t a focus of their regular programming, but the line is convenient to Grand Rapids—one of America’s great beer cities—so it's only natural the railroad would offer an Oktoberfest event.

The railroad hosts the "Oktoberfest Express" throughout October.  The 90 minute excursion includes sips of beer or choose from their selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks along with light snacks and festive music.  The railroad states your ticket includes two beverages and a snack.

Pairing Amtrak with Oktoberfest destinations

Even if a given year doesn’t bring many Oktoberfest-themed trains, you can still build a rail-forward itinerary that puts you close to Michigan’s top fall festivals and breweries.

Frankenmuth Oktoberfest

Ride Amtrak's Blue Water to Flint. From Flint, it’s roughly a 25-minute drive or rideshare to Frankenmuth, famed for its Bavarian architecture and one of the Midwest’s signature Oktoberfest celebrations. Combine with a Huckleberry Railroad ride at Crossroads Village.

Grand Rapids Oktoberfest

Take the Pere Marquette to Grand Rapids (daily from Chicago). Pair city festivities with a short drive to Coopersville & Marne Railway for a fall train ride.

Final Thoughts

Michigan’s rails and ales make a natural pairing, especially under a canopy of fall color. Dedicated “Oktoberfest trains” appear in some years and not others, but you can reliably find scenic fall excursions and dinner trains, then layer in great beer and Bavarian vibes in nearby towns.

Book early, verify alcohol and age policies, and plan transport that lets you savor the season safely. Whether you’re raising a stein in a vintage dining car or capping a steam ride with a festbier in town, autumn in Michigan by rail feels timeless—and tastes pretty great, too.